If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ve likely seen the imposing yet lovable Neapolitan Mastiff, Fang, who belonged to the gamekeeper Hagrid on the big screen.
While Fang was initially described as an oversized black boarhound in the novels, the filmmakers’ decision to cast a Neapolitan Mastiff was a stroke of genius1. These ancient dogs, with roots dating back to 3000 BCE, were once fearless warriors, guarding estates and battling alongside Roman soldiers.
Today, Neapolitan Mastiffs have traded battlefields for living rooms, but their imposing size and protective nature remain. If you’re considering adding one of these gentle giants to your family, get ready – they come with their fair share of pros and cons.
1. Massive Size & Need for Space
Neapolitan Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds in the world, with males weighing up to 200 pounds and standing over 30 inches tall. These dogs need ample space to move around and stretch their massive frames, making them unsuitable for apartment living.
They require a house with a large yard or access to open spaces for exercise and playtime. If you live in a cramped environment, a Neapolitan Mastiff may not be the best choice for you.
2. Crucial Early Training & Socialization
Despite their gentle nature, Neapolitan Mastiffs can be stubborn and strong-willed, making early training and socialization essential. Without proper guidance, these dogs may become aggressive or develop behavioral issues due to their size and strength.
Positive reinforcement techniques and consistent training from an early age can help shape a well-behaved and obedient Neapolitan Mastiff. Socialization with people, animals, and different environments is also crucial to prevent fear or aggression towards unfamiliar situations.
3. Proneness to Certain Health Issues
Like many large breeds, Neapolitan Mastiffs are susceptible to various health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. (ref) Their wrinkly skin also makes them prone to skin infections and eye issues like cherry eye.
Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and exercise can help mitigate these health risks, but prospective owners should be prepared for potential medical expenses.
4. Grooming Requires Dedication
While their short coat doesn’t require extensive grooming, Neapolitan Mastiffs do have specific grooming needs. Their wrinkly skin and folds must be cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and their droopy jowls can lead to excessive drooling.
Regular brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are also necessary to maintain their overall health and hygiene. Prospective owners should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to grooming their Neapolitan Mastiff.
5. They’re Couch Potatoes at Heart
Despite their imposing size, Neapolitan Mastiffs are relatively low-energy dogs and don’t require excessive exercise. A daily walk or moderate playtime is usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
However, it’s important not to overexercise them, especially as puppies, as their large frames can put strain on their developing joints and bones.
6. Excellent Watchdog Abilities
Neapolitan Mastiffs were bred as guard dogs, and their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs. They’re naturally wary of strangers and will bark to alert their owners of potential threats.
While this trait can be beneficial for home security, it also means that proper training and socialization are essential to prevent excessive barking or aggression towards visitors.
7. Gentle Giants with Families
Despite their intimidating appearance, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature with their families. They’re patient and loving with children, making them great family companions when properly trained and socialized.
However, their size means they can accidentally knock over or step on smaller children, so supervision is always recommended.
8. Drooling & Snoring Tendencies
Neapolitan Mastiffs are notorious for their excessive drooling and loud snoring, which can be a turnoff for some owners. Their loose skin and jowls contribute to these traits, and prospective owners should be prepared to deal with the mess and noise.
While endearing to some, the drooling and snoring can be a nuisance for others, so it’s important to consider your tolerance for these behaviors.
9. Need for a Firm but Fair Leader
As with many large breeds, Neapolitan Mastiffs respond best to a firm but fair leader who can establish clear boundaries and rules. Their size and strength can make them challenging to handle for inexperienced owners.
Consistent training and a calm, assertive approach are essential to ensure that these dogs respect their owners and follow commands.
10. They’re Expensive to Maintain
Neapolitan Mastiffs are not only expensive to purchase (with puppies costing upwards of $3,000), but they also have significant ongoing costs. Their large size means they require more food, which can be costly, especially if you opt for high-quality dog food.
Additionally, their potential health issues can lead to expensive veterinary bills, and their size may require specialized equipment or accommodations. (ref) Prospective owners should be prepared for the financial commitment of owning a Neapolitan Mastiff.
Source:
1. northantslive.news
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.